There are 127 registered hot tub companies in the U.S. today... which is a lot to choose from!
And it's understandable if you feel overwhelmed, it is a big investment after all.
But you're in luck, as we've clocked in dozens of hours of research, ranking each of these companies based on 13 factors including warranty, pricing, quality of materials used and required maintenance.
Scroll down to see the 26 hot tub companies that passed our test.
A buyers guide is included after the brand list so that you'll know exactly what to look for when shopping for your new hot tub.
Let's dive in!
Our Top Choices For Best Hot Tub Brands
1. Bullfrog Spas
- Best Overall
- Customizable JetPak Therapy System
- Energy-Efficient Tubing
2. Sundance
- Most Well-Rounded
- Fluidix Jet System
- UV-C Water Sanitation
3. Master Spas
- Best Swim Spas
- Auto-Current System
- Biomagnetic Therapy System
4. ThermoSpas
- Best Customization Options
- Deep Massage Therapy Seating
- Whirlpool Jets
5. Cal Spas
- Largest Line of Hot Tubs
- Massive Dealer Network
- Adjustable Therapy System
6. Vita Spas
- Best Luxury Models
- xStream Force Jet Propulsion System
- Solid Metal Frames
7. Lifesmart
- Best Budget-Friendly Tubs
- Eco Smart Technology
- 120V or 240V Capabilities
8. Marquis Hot Tubs
- Best Water Management Systems
- ConstantClean+
- High Output Therapy Zones
9. Arctic Spas
- Best All-Weather Hot Tubs
- Heat Lock Insulation
- Elastocast Shell
10. Integrity Spas
- Best Wellness-Focuse Spas
- Advanced Microprocessor Control System
- Interchangeable Hydrotherapy Jets
THE 26 BEST HOT TUB BRANDS
Bullfrog Spas was founded in 1996 and provides high-quality hot tubs all across North America.
They are known most for their JetPak Therapy System, an incredibly unique jet system that gives users 18 different customizable options for a wide variety of massage therapies.
While you might be thinking, “don’t all hot tub companies offer customization?”, none of them do quite like Bullfrog Spas.
Not only do you have the option to pick from a variety of styles, colors, and higher-tier features, but you also have the option to pick your preferred jet system and swap it out with ease.
Bullfrog Spas sells a wide array of seatback options as well, which are far more energy-efficient thanks to the fact that they use less tubing.
If design and customization are your priorities, we highly recommend looking into Bullfrog Spas' systems. They are our absolute favorite.
To see model specifics, head over to Bullfrog Spas reviews.
Category - Luxury, Customizable Hot Tubs
Sundance Spas has been around since 1979 and is headquartered in Chino, CA. Though they share the same parent company as the famous Jacuzzi brand, Sundance Spas have better features and upgrades than Jacuzzi.
You'll find a wide variety of hot tub products in the Sundance collection, ranging from your entry-level, standard-built tubs to high-quality, smart tubs with adjustable Fluidix jets.
They are most known for their superior Fluidix jets which use a combination of water and air, are designed to simulate specific massages, and are constructed with fewer moving parts to prevent wear and tear. They provide controllable hydrotherapy by utilizing acupressure and reflexology technologies.
From entry-level to premium, all of their spas come complete with multiple shell and cabinet color options, UV-C water sanitation, and waterfalls. Overall, Sundance Spas makes some of the best hot tubs in the US thanks to the innovative designs and high-quality materials.
Visit our Sundance Spas reviews page to see 4 of the series they offer.
Category - Innovative Spas Ranging from Entry Level to Luxury
Master Spas is a US company that has been manufacturing hot tubs and swim spas for over 20 years.
They are best known for crafting the Michael Phelps Swim Spa, a smooth, auto-current spa that allows you to relieve tension or exercise. Besides that, they have a number of different hot tubs, 21 to be exact, most of which range from entry-level prices to mid-level prices.
Their brand focuses on clarity and healthy living, as they offer a variety of features from waterfalls to their pressure point-based, biomagnetic therapy system.
In terms of upgrades, you can customize your tub to include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth audio, as well as UV-C sanitation. When it comes to budget-friendly wellness, Master Spas is one of the top contenders.
Read our Master Spas reviews page to better understand this brand.
Category - Innovative and Budget-Friendly Hot Tubs and Swim Spas
Thermospas is an American hot tub brand that was founded in 1983 and is currently headquartered in Wallingford, Connecticut, now operating under Jacuzzi Group Worldwide.
Thermospas is best known for offering some of the best customization options on the market. Their tubs range from about $4,000 to over $20,000, and designs range from standard relaxation tubs to their Aquacisor exercise tubs.
They excel in customization. Models include anywhere from 24 jets to 100 jets, with options to choose from a wide variety of colors, lighting packages, jet controls, safety rails, and much, much more.
Unlike many other hot tubs on our list, this company sells directly to the consumer, meaning you cannot buy their tubs from third-party dealers.
Our Thermospas reviews page goes into the nitty gritty details if you need more information!
Category - Customizable Hot Tubs and Swim Spas
Cal Spas has been around since 1978 and is currently one of the top recreational product manufacturers in the world.
With over 250 hot tub and spa products in their lineup, you could say that the company is somewhat of a hot tub giant.
From hot tubs to swim spas, they have a generous selection for families, couples, and singles, each of which boasts high-quality entertainment and hydrotherapy options.
You can find Cal Spas in a wide variety of dealers around the world, and each of their hot tubs can be customized with tons of amazing features.
Whether you are looking to spend a ton of money and deck out your hot tub with the latest and greatest in hot tub technology, or are looking for something simple and user-friendly, Cal Spas surely has a hot tub for you. To see our favorites, head over to our Cal Spas Reviews page.
Category: Highly customizable hot tubs and swim spas.
Vita Spas was bought out by Maax Spas in 2015, and therefore share many of the same features and options. While they are headquartered in Long Beach, CA, their large network of dealers makes it easy for consumers to purchase a Vita Spas tub in almost any local area.
They have nine different spa models and 21 different hot tub models, ranging widely in terms of features and budgets.
They are most known for their X-Series tubs, which are made for resistance-based exercises thanks to their xStream Force Jet Propulsion System. All of their hot tubs and swim spas are built with solid metal frame and composite wood, meaning you won't have to worry about maintenance.
There are a wide variety of jet customization options too, allowing consumers to create their perfect hydro-therapeutic scenarios.
Read our full article at Vita Spas reviews.
Category - Lifestyle Hot Tubs and Spas
Lifesmart is a budget friendly hot tub manufacturer that designs easily accessible hot tubs for people all around the world. They make high-quality, durable, and aesthetically pleasing hot tubs.
These spas come 120 V plug-and-play ready which eliminates the hassle of installation. However, some models are convertible to 240V.
One of their most prominent hot tub features is the molded rock outer shells. These shells are some of the most durable hot tub shells on the market, meaning less maintenance and wear compared to other hot tub brands.
They utilize Eco Smart technology, which far exceeds water efficiency standards for California’s Energy Mandate.
This economical hot tub brand is widely available through third-party big box stores and online retailers. Head over to Lifesmart Hot Tub Reviews to learn more!
Category - Hot Tubs
Marquis Hot Tubs has been around for over two decades now and is headquartered in Camarillo, CA. They are best known for their design aesthetics, in which they draw influence from organic styling and unique, geometric shapes.
These hot tubs utilize ConstantClean+ water management systems, using ozonation and in-line sanitation/filtration to keep water clean, as well as keep their tubs energy-efficient.
Their hot tubs have High Output Therapy Zones with clustered jets that feature support, as well a provide massages for lumbar, shoulder, and foot zones.
Beyond hot tubs, they have a line of Aquatic Training Vessels, perfect for those who want access to an innovative fitness routine right in their own backyard.
Marquis Hot Tubs makes some of the best acrylic hot tubs in the business, ranging from mid-priced to premium. See our Marquis Spas Reviews for detailed model information.
Category - Portable, Outdoor Hot Tubs and Swim Spas
In 1994, Arctic Spas was founded by a group of boys from small, rural communities in Western Canada. Their main goal has been to produce hot tubs purpose-built for the most extreme and harsh of environments, pushing the limits of hot tub technology.
To help you save on energy costs, they've incorporated some of the most efficient heat recovery systems and insulation into their builds.
They utilize world-class construction techniques and are known for providing some of the best customer service in the industry. They were also one of the very first manufacturers to make use of smartphone control.
Overall, if you live in a colder northern climate and are looking for a hot tub that can meet the needs in a cold environment, Arctic is your brand.
Our Arctic Spas Reviews article has more detailed information on individual models.
Category - Hot Tubs, Spas, and Pools for Harsh Climates
Integrity Spas is headquartered in Leawood, Kansas, and they have been manufacturing spas and hot tubs for almost 10 years.
They are best known for providing a top-quality, online buying experience, great for those who want to customize and order their spas online without ever having to go see a third-party dealer.
Their brand is a blend of elegance and style, exactly what you would want in a Hydrotherapy spa. Their team consults with some of the top physical therapists and orthopedic experts in the industry to help in their design process so that they can provide users with their ultimate goal: Total Relaxation.
All of their spas and hot tubs are handmade and custom-built to consumer specifications. You can have anything from TV entertainment systems, to waterfalls, to lounge seating, and beyond.
For model reviews, visit our Integrity Spas Reviews article.
Category - Swim Spas and Hot Tubs
Maax Spas is easily one of the biggest spa and hot tub manufacturers in the game. They are headquartered in Arizona and have been making spas for over 40 years with two companies under their belt: Vita Spa and American Whirlpool.
Their dealer network is one of the largest and they are continuing to grow every single day, making them one of the most popular hot tub brands in the world.
They have 41 spa models to choose from, as well as 16 swim spa models, and 350 different retailers across North America and Europe. Each of their hot tubs utilizes BlueMAAX insulation for supreme energy efficiency, and each is made with a steel frame for the ultimate durability.
While they are a massive, corporate-style company, they do produce some of the most sought-after hot tubs.
Hot Springs Spas has a wide variety of upper-level, luxury hot tubs that at affordable prices.
They work hand-in-hand with Designworks, a BMW group company known for making highly innovative comfort and design products. Essentially, you'll know that you are getting a well-designed hot tub when you buy from Hot Springs.
One of the best aspects about Hot Springs Spas is that they continue to produce parts for their long line of hot tubs. This means that if you buy a hot tub today, and a component breaks 10 years from now, you’ll still be able to find and purchase the parts required to fix your hot tub.
Another aspect that sets them apart is their Salt Water system, which is much easier to clean, kills bacteria more naturally, and requires less chemical intervention.
Head over to our Hot Spring Spas Reviews page to learn more!
Category - Luxury Hot Tubs
Not everyone is in the market for a top-of-the-line, innovative hot tub. Some of us just want a simple and functional unit. This is where Beachcomber comes in. This Canadian hot tub company makes some of the most affordable hot tubs on the market minus all of the added bells and whistles.
Their hot tubs molds are simple in terms of design, yet incredibly comfortable and easy to clean. Thanks to the Canadian origin, these hot tubs are ideal for colder environments.
If you live in the snow, Beachcomber Hot Tubs are a great alternative to Arctic Spas. Overall, if you are in the market for a simple, reliable, budget-friendly hot tub, Beachcomber may be right up your alley.
Head over to Beachcomber Hot Tub Reviews to learn more.
Category - Simple and Comfortable Hot Tubs
Canadian Spa Company provides entire spa experiences. They not only have a solid line of 120V plug-and-play hot tubs and swim spas, but also portable spas, saunas, and gazebos.
Having won numerous design awards, their portable, inflatable spas are some of the best on the market. The beauty of Canadian Spa Company is that you can find their spas in almost every major retailer throughout the world.
People love the fact that they can buy a Canadian Spa hot tub at the store, throw it in their trunk, and set it up in a few minutes time with no professional installation required.
Let's not forget that they make some very respectable traditional-style 240 V hot tubs too.
Their customer service is on point, as well as very wide-reaching, making them one of the best hot tub brands in the world.
Category - Portable Spas, Swim Spas, and Saunas
Hydropool Hot Tubs has been around since 1978 and they have been making their own high-quality hot tubs since then.
They are a wide-reaching company with over 250 dealers throughout the world. They are known best for their high-quality sim spas, as they began making them back in the early ‘90s.
Their hot tubs have special, self-cleaning technology, giving you 100% fresh, new water every 15 minutes. They are even some of the most energy-efficient tubs out there, thanks to their utilization of NASA technology.
Their hot tubs have won a number of awards for their innovative design. With 19 different hot tubs and 11 swim spas, you have a lot of products to choose from. Hydropool hot tubs are great for those who are looking for the most easy-to-maintain tub around.
Category - Self-Cleaning Hot Tubs and Swim Spas
PDC Spas is one of the longest-lasting hot tub brands out there. For over 60 years, they've been manufacturing some of the best hot tubs in the world.
Their origins trace back to fiberglass swimming pools and horse therapy machines, though when the 80s rolled around and hot tubs became popular, they took to the skies to develop some of the highest-quality hot tubs we now know.
More than anything, PDC Spas is known for their swim spas that are available at a wide range of price points.
Their swim current systems is one of the most sought after in the industry, utilizing PowerFlo filtration and an Air’assage system. The beauty is, their hot tubs are available all around the world, from America, to Russia, to France, and beyond.
Category - Hot Tubs and Swim Spas
Dimension One Hot Tubs opened up in 1977 and has been innovating in terms of performance and design since. They have a huge line of dealers around the world, bringing their hot tubs to homes everywhere.
One of their most notable features is their UltraPure water management system that helps to reduce chemical use in your hot tub so that you can keep it clear and clean more naturally.
They have won a variety of design awards over the years and were one of the very first hot tub companies to create a fully-insulated hot tub. Thanks to their futuristic heating elements, Dimension One Hot Tubs work perfectly in energy-efficient homes.
Overall, if you are looking for an innovative and energy-efficient hot tub, we recommend setting your sights on Dimension One.
Category - Luxury Hot Tubs and Spas
While Coleman is probably best known for their wide range of camping gear, they also just happen to make one of the best inflatable hot tubs on the market.
Their Lay-Z Spa is the newest iteration of their inflatable spas, perfect for those who are on a budget or don’t have the right space to install a traditional-style hot tub.
Their hot tubs are portable, made with durable I-beam construction to provide you with both stability and comfort, no matter where you are at.
The Tritech technology uses three plies of reinforced material too, meaning you’ll never have to worry about it popping and flooding your backyard like other cheap inflatable pool and hot tubs.
Coleman Spas are the best inflatable spa manufacturers around hands down.
Category - Inflatable Spas and Camping Gear
Nordic Hot Tubs has been around since 1995. They provide a variety of high-quality, therapeutic hot tubs in a wide range of prices.
When it comes to a mix of professional hydrotherapy and consumer value, they excel over most hot tub brands.
All of their hot tubs are hand-crafted from the finest materials on the market, and they are incredibly easy to install.
Their hot tubs come with exclusive DTS (Dual-Therapy System) technology that combines strong water flow with circular motion.
View our Nordic Hot Tub reviews page for a further overview of this brand.
Artesian Spas is one of the top boutique hot tub dealers in the United States and they have been manufacturing hot tubs for many decades.
They have a line of four different spas, including the Artesian Elite, Island Spas, South Seas Spas, and Garden Spas.
The shells are well-supporting and the parts are of the highest quality that the market provides.
They don’t carry a lot of the same high-performance features that some top-of-the-line luxury tubs carry, though their designs speak for themselves.
There are authorized Artesian Spa dealers in 300 countries around the world, making them a fairly far-reaching brand for how small their factory is.
They also have many spas for lower and middle price ranges.
To find out more about this brand see our page at Artesian Hot Tub reviews.
Caldera Spas has been around since 1976 and has won a number of awards.When it comes to spa design, Caldera Spas take a unique approach and uses Circuit Therapy for full-body therapy and relaxation.
Caldera has many different spa models with the Utopia Series at the top of the line. There are 55 jets in all, and the spa seats up to eight adults.
Some of their other series include the Paradise, Vacanza, and Martinique, each of which focus on different types of therapeutic relief.
Unlike many hot tub companies out there, Caldera has a Deck Design tool on their website, allowing prospective buyers to build their own spa and create renderings.
All of Cadera’s hot tubs also come with FreshWater Salt Systems for easy water care.
If you're interested in this brand, head over to our Caldera Spas Reviews page!
Coast Spas has been manufacturing hot tubs for over 20 years and offer a wide array of styles and features that are fairly affordable compared to other luxury hot tub brands.
This is the only hot tub brand on the market that has ISO Quality Certification, as well as commercial-grade Hydro Cyclonic Filtration.
They have a few award-winning spas, including the Infinity Edge Hot Tubs and Swim Spas.
The 24” waterfall is the largest waterfall manufactured into any spa in the world.
When it comes to innovation and value, Coast Hot Tubs is one of the best brands on the market.
If you'd like more detailed reviews of specific models, see our Coast Spas Reviews page.
When it comes to mid-range hot tubs, Viking Spas is one of the top manufacturers.
They build quality is as solid as a viking ship and the range of features is very wide.
While they aren’t the most innovative brand on our list, they do use a unique proprietary filter system instead of the typical pleated filters that you see on many hot tubs.
The brand prides themselves on being one of the most energy-efficient brands on the market while still providing users with optimal jet pressure.
Viking Spas has a serious commitment to value and their hot tubs can be found in huge retailers across the world.
Head over to Viking Spas Reviews to learn more.
Softub is one of the most versatile brands on the market right now with a line of portable and energy-efficient hot tubs for any budget.
They utilize whisper technology, making them some of the quietest running tubs on the market, and their heat recycling technology paired with their Hydromate technology helps the tubs to run efficiently and effectively.
The tubs make use of an innovative foam material that provides freedom in movement and transportation, though they are still just as comfortable, if not more comfortable, than many hardshell hot tubs out there.
For a hot tub that is therapeutic, easy to maintain, economical, and portable, Softub is one of the best around.
For more information, see our Softub reviews page.
Tuff Spas is a smaller hot tub brand that runs out of Glendale, AZ, helping to provide users with affordable tubs. Tuff Spas hot tubs are a wonderful choice for buyers on a budget who are looking for both hydrotherapy and comfort. Their tubs are made out of an advanced non-slip polymer that is made to withstand the most extreme of environments so that they can last a lifetime.
They each come with unique Tuff Top Cover options that are made out of industrial strength polyethylene plastic, which never needs to be replaced. With nine different models to choose from for couples and large families alike, Tuff Spas are an excellent option for those looking for an inexpensive way to take advantage of total relaxation and entertainment. These tubs are just about as easy as it gets.
To learn more, make sure to check out our Tuff Spas Reviews main page where we provide an in-depth evaluation.
Category: Durable and affordable hot tubs for extreme environments.
American Whirlpool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas sits under the larger umbrella of Maax Spas. We like to think of it as a complete revamp of what the Maax Spas hot tub collection used to look like. Americal Whirlpool is different in that it brings far more innovative features to the table.
Some of the top features on the Americal Whirlpool hot tubs include the Dr. Designed Zone Therapy system, the four-step cleaning system, the Northern Exposure Insulation system, the Comfort Collar, the Foot Relief Zone, and the TheraMAAX Jets.
These hot tubs are designed by medical professionals to help provide the best in therapeutic relief and hydrotherapy. You can expect that you are purchasing a high-quality hot tub with the highest-possible standards when you purchase an American Whirlpool tub.
For a more in-depth review, make sure to check out our American Whirlpool reviews page.
Category: Doctor designed hot tubs for those seeking the best in hydrotherapy.
Additional Top Rated Companies
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
When it comes to finding the perfect hot tub, it makes sense to find one with tons of good reviews. It is the same reason that you likely look on Yelp before you go out to eat at a restaurant or Rotten Tomatoes before you see a movie. It is because you don't want to take the risk and end up with something regrettable.
If there was a five-star rating system, for example, you wouldn't want to buy a hot tub that had any less than four. Remember, a hot tub is a serious investment, and taking the risk of breakage isn't worth it.
WARRANTY
Make sure to take a close look at the hot tub warranty before you make your purchase. Having a hot tub with a solid warranty will assure you that your spa will be taken care of if anything is to happen. Though warranties always differ, we recommend getting an exterior warranty that is at least five years. This is because outer shells and covers tend to wear out the fastest.
LOCAL DEALERS
You're going to want to be careful if you are buying a hot tub from a big box store or a strange online store. This is because authorized hot tub dealers are not only there to sell hot tubs; they are also there to help with servicing once a tub has been sold. They will also typically carry extra parts so that you can replace things if need be.
SERVICE AGREEMENT FOR REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE AFTER THE SALE
When you buy a hot tub, you're going to want it to be in service for many years so that you can enjoy it for all those years to come. When you purchase from a reputable dealer, you typically receive a service agreement that will provide you protection post-purchase. Ask about the service agreement when you're looking to buy.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING
JETS & THERAPY OPTIONS
When it comes to looking at the jets on your desired model, make sure to remember that just because a hot tub has a bigger jet system does not mean that it has a better jet system. Cheap hot tub brands seem to market their jet count a lot, as they have nothing else to show for.
Instead of looking at the numbers, look at the quality. See if there are any hydromassage or therapy jet options. Are the jets designed in such a way that they provide unique pressure relief? Are there any specific areas on your body that you want to target?
PRICE
Make sure to consider your budget when you look for a new hot tub. You'll typically find that luxury tubs cost over $10,000. These tubs generally are made with top-notch materials and have some of the most modern features available. They also tend to be pretty large. On the other hand, entry-level tubs can cost a person below $5,000, though you can expect these tubs to be a bit simpler in design.
APPEARANCE
Appearance is a pretty simple one. What are you going for in terms of look? Do you want something that is a bit more natural-looking with wood paneling, or are you looking for something that fits with sharp, modern home decor with LEDs and other high-tech features?
SIZE & SEATING
The more seats that you have available in your hot tub, the more people you can have in there at once. It's pretty simple. The best way to determine how many seats you'll need is by thinking about how many people will be using your hot tub. You may have a family of four, though friends often come over on the weekends. You'll want to make sure that you have enough seats to entertain the gang.
Just make sure to keep in mind that the more seats you want will require a larger hot tub that will cost more.
PORTABILITY (INFLATABLE VS. REGULAR)
If your tub is sitting in the same spot in your backyard for many years, portability might not be a huge issue. However, if you're constantly moving things around in your backyard, or you have a small space that requires relocating your tub when you have parties or events in your home, you might want to consider getting a portable tub.
When we say portable, we're talking inflatable tubs. Inflatable tubs are very similar to blow-up mattresses in terms of design and feel, though they are far more durable. They are easy to stow away and run much cheaper than hard-sided tubs.
UPGRADES & EXTRAS
Having the ability to upgrade and customize your hot tub with next-level features can be very important to you. These upgrades can include sound systems, smartphone connections, ambient lighting, stronger jets, etc. While they aren't of the utmost importance when it comes to having a durable and long-lasting hot tub, these upgradable features are what come together to make your hot tub exciting!
CONSTRUCTION QUALITY
The least durable hot tubs on the market are made out of soft-sided vinyl or inflatable materials, though they are also the cheapest tubs on the market as well. If you're looking for the most durable hot tub for your home, we recommend looking for thermal plastic, stainless steel, or wood.
Rotomolded spas are all the hype these days, as they are made out of one durable piece of material.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
A hot tub will usually cost you about $20 per month to run on average. With that said, there are a few added variables to bring into consideration. A hot tub will be far more expensive to operate in the winter compared to summer, especially if they are larger. We recommend looking for an energy-efficient hot tub that has high-quality insulation.
If you're interested in seeing what your monthly operating costs might be with a new hot tub, we recommend checking out this handy energy efficiency calculator.
WATER FILTRATION
There is no question that people enjoy spending time in hot tubs that are clean. Hot tub filtration systems are made to purify water, though they vary in terms of size. A larger water filter has the ability to clean more water in a larger surface area compared to smaller filters. Plus, you won't have to change it as often.
There are some hot tubs that have complete filtration systems.
WHAT TO AVOID
There are many misconceptions that people have when looking for hot tubs. For starters, people often look at jet count rather than jet quality, which is a big no-no. Buyers also often spend too much time looking at the exterior of the hot tub rather than considering the insulation.
We recommend checking out our hot tub brands to avoid page if you want to refrain from making a regrettable hot tub purchase.
Need a Hot Tub?
FAQ
FINANCING OPTIONS
You may be able to finance a hot tub if you can't afford it in full right now. Hot tubs can cost thousands of dollars upfront, which is the kind of money that many people don't have sitting around. Of course, you'll have to discuss the possibility of hot tub financing with your bank to see if it is even possible. Just make sure to get the best interest rate possible so that you don't spend a ton of extra money in the long run!
HOT TUB BENEFITS
Hot tubs are much more than mini party pools. There are quite a few hot tub health benefits when it comes to your health. Hot tubs use a combination of heat, buoyancy, and massage to help manage stress relief. For those with arthritis, hot tubs can provide decreased pain and joint stiffness.
For those who suffer from lack of sleep, a soak in the hot tub can also provide a deeper and more relaxing bedtime!
JACUZZI VS. HOT TUB
Contrary to popular belief, Jacuzzi is actually a brand name of one of the first spa manufacturers there ever was. Like Kleenex is used to describe the world of tissue, Jacuzzi is often used to describe the world of hot tubs.
The Jacuzzi brand has been trying to fight this brand-name dilution for quite a while so to keep the brand from becoming generic. If the hot tub is a Jacuzzi brand, you can 100% call it Jacuzzi. If it is not, just refer to it as a hot tub. For more information, read our Jacuzzi vs Hot Tub vs Spa article.
HOW TO MOVE A HOT TUB?
Here is a small step-by-step process on how to move a hot tub:
Start by packing up all of your hot tub accessories. This includes electrical units, heaters, blowers, plumbing units, and pumps.
Drain your hot tub by connecting a hose to the drain valve and releasing the water. This should take around 10 minutes.
If you have a wet-dry vacuum, use it to clear any remaining water in the tub.
Make sure to find the best route prior to picking it up so you can make sure it clears in terms of width and height.
Get some friends and move it! We recommend using a dolly if you are moving it along flat surfaces, or a piece of cardboard underneath to protect it from getting scratched.
HOW TO DRAIN A HOT TUB?
Start by disconnecting the power supply so that the hot tub is off
Find the drain valve, take the cover off, and connect a hose to the end of it. Place the other end of the hose in a proper drainage area. It can be illegal to dump hot tub water into ocean drains depending on the area you live in, so make sure to check your local laws.
Open your spa drain and allow the water to drain out of the hose. This process may take a while.
If you have a wet-dry vacuum, you can use it to get rid of the remaining water, as there will likely be a bit of water puddled at the bottom.
HOW TO CLEAN A HOT TUB?
Start by allowing the water to drain out of your hot tub by using the process above.
Once the water is removed, begin your cleaning process by cleaning your filter. We recommend using filter cleaning spray or placing the filter in a bucket full of water and filter soak solution and letting it sit overnight.
Clean the shell of the spa with hot tub cleaner, diluted bleach, or white vinegar. Make sure to use a soft cloth to prevent any scratches. When you've finished, make sure to rinse the surfaces with cool fresh water.
HOW MUCH DOES A HOT TUB COST?
Hot tubs can range from about $3,000 to $16,000. The higher in pricing you move, the more features you will have available to you. Keep in mind that the initial cost of a hot tub is only one piece of the equation. You'll also want to consider the cost of ownership as time goes on, meaning maintenance, service, and energy costs. Here is a quick pricing breakdown:
Entry-Level Hot Tubs: $3,000-$5,000
Value-Priced Hot Tubs: $4,000-$8,000
Premium Hot Tubs: $6,000-$10,000
Luxury Hot Tubs: $10,000-$16,000
HOW MUCH DOES A HOT TUB WEIGH?
The weight of hot tubs can vary greatly when you consider different sizes and materials. On average, a small, hard-sided, two-person hot tub will typically weigh about 500 pounds when empty. When filled with water, however, that same tub can go up to 3,000 pounds. Larger tubs that are capable of holding six or more people will likely weigh over 1,000 pounds.
HOW TO MAINTAIN A HOT TUB?
Before you get into your hot tub maintenance routine, we recommend using test strips to check the mineral and chemical levels in your hot tub. These test strips can be purchased at just about any hot tub dealer or pool store. They will check for things like chlorine level, calcium hardness, alkalinity, pH, and more. Depending on what you need, you can add chemicals to your water.
Next, make sure to clean the filter every two weeks! In terms of the exterior, we recommend conditioning once a month to keep it in good condition. UV rays and extreme weather can break the chemical bonds of your hot tub shell and cover, so making sure it is protected is the best way to prolong its life.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO RUN A HOT TUB?
The first thing that you'll need to consider is the monthly heating cost. The price will depend on the temperature of the hot tub, the unit price per kilowatt-hour, and how often the hot tub is used. On average, the energy costs for new hot tubs are about $20 per month.
Remember, you will have to clean and refill your hot tub every other month or so as well. When broken down evenly into 12 months, this cleaning and refilling process costs an average of $15 per month.
HOW TO INSTALL A HOT TUB?
Start by calling your city to see if you need a building permit before you start so you don't run into trouble down the line.
Pick your location. An average hot tub should have a 10'x10' plot of space for comfort, though it depends on the size of your home and tub.
Prep the space if necessary. We recommend pouring concrete if it is on a soft surface or using a spa pad to protect your foundation.
Route your power to your hot tub from your grid. Once assembled, hook it up.
Fill the hot tub with water using buckets or a garden hose. You're now ready to relax!
HOW LONG SHOULD YOU STAY IN A HOT TUB?
On average, we recommend sitting in a hot tub for no more than 30 minutes at a time. Remember, you can always get out and re-enter at a later time if you want to soak more. The important thing is that you stay aware of how you feel when you're in the water. The length of time that you can stay in a hot tub can depend greatly on your health. If you begin to feel sick or dizzy, it may be helpful to decrease the amount of time that you spend in your tub.
HOW HOT SHOULD A HOT TUB BE?
Don't let anyone fool you. There is no right or wrong temperature for a hot tub. With that said, certain temperatures can unlock certain healing powers that you can benefit from. Most hot tub users prefer sitting in the 100-102-degree Fahrenheit range. 104 is the standard maximum temperature that the hot tub industry has agreed on, though some users prefer this temperature overall. We recommend that children under five never sit in a hot tub that is over 95-degrees Fahrenheit.
HOW DOES A HOT TUB WORK?
Hot tubs have three main connections:
Air In Connection
Water In Connection
Air Mixture Outlet
Hot tub pressure is created when the pump pushes water through the jet until it flows out. The pressurized air that gets mixed in moves through a small hole inside of the jet in a process called the venturi effect. Because the air that is outside of the jet is at high pressure compared to the water inside the pipe, that air gets pressed into the water stream and shoots out of the jets.
HOW TO FILL A HOT TUB?
Most people probably aren't aware, but filling up a hot tub is a very simple process. All you need is a working garden hose! Simply stick one end of the garden hose in your tub and start filling it up. We recommend filling through the skimmer basket, as it will help to prevent a circulating pump airlock.
WHERE TO BUY A HOT TUB?
There are many different places to purchase hot tubs. For those people that are into physical touch in the purchasing realm, we recommend heading down to your local hot tub dealer to talk with them about different types of hot tubs.
If you are a fan of Costco, know that they also deal hot tubs! You can find a large selection of spas on their website, or attend one of their roadshows to see the actual models in person! Our Costco Hot Tubs page offers more helpful insight.
If there is a specific hot tub that you are interested in, make sure to check the manufacturer website to see what dealers they run through.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO HEAT A HOT TUB?
Standard hot tubs have the ability to increase by about 3-6 degrees per hour. Of course, if your hot tub is outside, the air temperature will be a huge factor. A warm and sunny day that is hovering around 100-degrees will likely correlate to a four-hour heating process. That heating time is also dependent on the condition of your hot tub components, including your pump, cover, water heater, and jets. Worn out or damaged components can lead to much longer heating times.
We recommend keeping a cover on your hot tub so that heat doesn't escape when it is not in use!
HOW TO BUILD A DECK AROUND A HOT TUB?
If you love the idea of a hot tub, but don't like the idea of having a small bathtub sitting in your yard, you may want to build a deck around it. It is important to start by making sure that your hot tub is on a level foundation. We recommend pouring a 4" concrete pad to sit your tub on.
It is also recommended that you do not build your hot tub within a flush surface, as it can be unsafe for children and animals who may be wandering around your backyard. Plus, it leaves the equipment inaccessible, making it difficult for technicians to service your hot tub when they are asked to come by.
HOW MUCH ELECTRICITY DOES A HOT TUB USE?
As of 2019, the average price of kilowatt per hour is 13.9 cents. To determine how much a hot tub will cost you monthly, you'll need to divide the wattage of your hot tub by 1,000 in order to convert it into kilowatts. For example, a 240-volt hot tub heated will use 7,500 watts, which equates to 7.5 kilowatts.
If you use your hot tub on an average of 30 hours per month, you can multiply that by 7.5 kilowatts to get 225 kilowatt-hours per month. In this equation, the hot tub will cost about $420 per year.
HOT TUB WHEN PREGNANT
Having a body temperature that is over 100-degrees Fahrenheit can raise a few concerns during pregnancy. Increased body temperatures during the first trimester have been shown to increase the risk of birth defects. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend against going into hot tubs when pregnant. It only takes about 15 minutes in a hot tub to raise your body temperature to 102-degrees, which can have negative impacts.
If you need to relax and unwind during pregnancy, we highly recommend taking a warm bath that is under 100-degrees Fahrenheit.
FINAL THOUGHTS - WHAT ARE THE BEST HOT TUB BRANDS TO BUY?
Thanks so much for reading our hot tub brands reviews. These 18 different hot tub brands are unique in their own right, meaning you should do your research and consider your needs before you purchase one.
If we had to pick our favorite overall, we would have to go with Bullfrog Spas. Their JetPak system is one of the most unique jet systems in the hot tub market right now.
Bullfrog also provides consumers with a wide variety of upgrade options, ranging from audio entertainment systems to SmartControl systems. We hope that this list of best rated hot tub brands has given you all the necessary info so that you can make your next hot tub purchase confidently. Good luck and we wish you total relaxation.
Whether you're just window shopping for price, or ready to make a purchase soon, we invite you to use our FREE quote service. You'll get pricing from hot tub dealers in your area without having to spend hours calling around. Fill out the quick form below.
About The Author
Meredith Kiley
Full-time staff writer at wyllz.com and stay-at-home mom.